Authorities believe pepper spray caused toxic odor at Marriott

TOWN OF WALLKILL — Fire officials say the toxic odor that forced the evacuation of the Courtyard by Marriott hotel at Crystal Run Crossing Friday was likely caused by pepper spray.

Mechanicstown Fire Chief Joe Andre said the orange color of the substance and its effects were consistent with pepper spray. It appears the substance was sprayed on the emergency bar of a door leading to a stairwell. The smell became toxic when it mixed with cleaning fluid.

Two hotel workers were transported to the hospital with mild irritation to their throats, Andre said.